What Should You Do Next If You Break Down On A Busy Motorway?
Breaking down on a busy motorway can be a stressful and scary experience. With the constant stream of fast-moving traffic, it's important to know how to stay safe and get help quickly. So, what should you bear in mind if you find yourself in this situation?
Try to Move to a Safe Place
As soon as you realise that your car is about to break down, try to move it as far away from the traffic as possible. If you're able to, drive onto the hard shoulder and park your car as far to the inside as you can. If you can't make it to the hard shoulder, try to park your car as safely as possible to avoid obstructing traffic. Turn on your hazard lights so that other drivers can see you, and put on your reflective vest if you have one.
Call for Help
Once you've parked your car safely, the next step is to call for help. Use your mobile phone to call your breakdown service or the emergency services. If you don't have a phone or it's not working, walk to an emergency phone on the hard shoulder. You can also use a roadside assistance app if you have one.
Stay in Your Car
Unless you feel unsafe, it's best to stay inside your car while you wait for help to arrive. This is because getting out of your car on a busy motorway puts you in danger from passing traffic. Keep your seatbelt on, and try to stay calm. If it's hot, open a window slightly for ventilation, and keep hydrated.
If you feel that your car is parked in a particularly vulnerable position, you may want to evacuate yourself and your passengers to a safer place. Typically, this would be behind a crash barrier or up on the bank that may run alongside the motorway. However, this will be a judgement call based on your particular situation.
Be Visible to Other Drivers
As well as turning on your hazard lights and wearing a reflective vest, you should also put a warning triangle on the road some distance behind your car to warn other drivers. This will help prevent any accidents while you wait for help to arrive. If it's dark, turn on your car's interior lights to make it easier for other drivers to see you.
Don't Panic
Breaking down on a busy motorway can be a daunting experience, but it's important to stay calm and not panic. Remember that help is on the way, and there are plenty of other drivers who will be willing to help you if they can. Try to remain composed and patient, and follow the advice of the breakdown services when they arrive.
Contact an emergency towing service for more information.
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